Abia Wins Overall Title as First South‑East Amateur Boxing Tournament Concludes in Umuahia

The first edition of the South‑East Amateur Boxing Championship for men and women concluded on Friday in Umuahia, Abia State. The host state topped the medal table with eight gold, three silver and two bronze medals.

Enugu State finished second, earning four gold and four silver medals, while Imo State came in third with one gold, one silver and five bronze medals.

Anambra State placed fourth, taking one gold and two bronze medals, and Ebonyi State secured two silver and three bronze medals.

At the close of the championship, Abia State Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development Nwaobilor Ananaba praised the five participating states for their high level of sportsmanship.

The commissioner, represented by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Jane Igwe, noted that Governor Alex Otti’s administration is dedicated to nurturing grassroots sports to uncover future champions for Abia, the South‑East, and Nigeria as a whole.

“We didn’t just witness boxing matches; we witnessed the future of Nigerian boxing unfolding before our very eyes,” the commissioner said.

Earlier in his remarks, Abia State Director of Sports Obioma George thanked all participating states, coaches, officials, referees and organisers for making the inaugural edition a resounding success. He praised the athletes for their determination and wished all delegates safe travels back to their home states.

The tournament’s standout performer, Chidiebere Chukwuemeka of Abia State, said his goal is to represent Nigeria in international competitions, including the Olympic Games.